Donna Karan Resort 2011

With the Manhattan skyline as a backdrop–the Empire State Building looked within arm’s reach–Donna Karan’s resort show was just the tall glass of cool refreshment needed on a blisteringly hot and humid day. Karan, never one to overembellish, stayed focused with this “City Lights” collection via a capsule of minimalist tones–white, black, navy and “eyeshadow” gray–that allowed her genius sense of draping to shine through. These are a true woman’s ensembles (cue the group of perfectly-coiffed Donna Karan U.S. ambassadors who flew in for the show), designed to be a calming and soothing antidote to an ever-increasingly complex world. Her signature draping and liquid-like aesthetic was so highly sophisticated–think bold metallic accents, gorgeous chain mail and sharp shoulders–that even a flurry of ruffles seemed architectural against a constellation dress.

Prior to the start of the show, Karan happily greeted guests with hugs and kisses–not exactly the typical designer-freaking-out-backstage motif one would expect when graced with an A-list front row. But Karan’s a true pro–she is, after all, nominated for Womenswear Designer of the Year at tonight’s CFDA Fashion Awards. Sure, there could’ve been a few more day looks in the show (for the record, there are plenty of day options), but Karan’s boudoir-esque vibe clearly spelled out that for the designer, “holiday belongs to the night.” Translation? No cheeky beach wraps here. An black wool tuxedo jacket/chain mail wrap halter/stretch satin skirt combo was stellar, and for evening, the jersey and lame evening dresses deserved red carpet moments.